ICU SCORING SYSTEMS ALLOW PREDICTION OF PATIENT OUTCOMES AND COMPARISON OF ICU PERFORMANCE

Data support the use of prognostic systems for evaluating ICU performa nce. ICU effectiveness can be assessed by comparing actual and predict ed group death rates, and efficiency can be assessed by comparing ICU length of stay and resource use. Prognostic estimates that consider da ily changes in physiology provide an objective measure of an individua l patient's response to therapy. These prognostic estimates can be use d to support clinical decisions, but must be used as a supplement rath er than as a substitute for good clinical judgment.